The Sun is All-Pervading

ALOK K. SHRIVASTAVA, IAS (R)

Our Sun is a gigantic star at the center of the solar system. It is massive in size, primarily composed of hydrogen and helium. It is located 149,600,000 km from Earth. No power in the universe can sideline, ignore, or surpass the Sun. It is a symbol of divine power—an indomitable powerhouse of light and energy. It outshines all the eight planets and stars combined.

Being immense in size, it enables plants to photosynthesize and contributes to the formation of fossil fuels, which are burned for energy. On sunny days, particularly in summer, we welcome both sunrise and sunset. However, when the midday heat becomes scorching, we curse it, if not openly, at least in our minds. Yet, despite soaring temperatures, daily work must go on—there is no respite.

Sun Worship

The Sun has been an object of veneration in many cultures. In India, it is worshipped as a special deity twice a year—on Chhath Puja and MakarSankranti. Devotees observe the rigorous Chhath fast, abstaining from water for over 36 hours. The Sun is first worshipped in the evening, and again at sunrise the next day, when devotees offer ‘Arghya’ (a water offering) to the rising Sun. During this festival, home-cooked Thekua and fresh raw fruits are offered as prasad. Notably, this is the only Hindu festival where a priest’s assistance is not required. Friends and relatives gather in large numbers to ensure its success.

On MakarSankranti, the Sun transitions from DhanuRashi (Sagittarius) to MakarRashi (Capricorn), marking the beginning of Uttarayan. This movement signifies longer days and warmer temperatures, bringing positivity, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Traditionally, MakarSankranti marks the end of winter and the onset of spring, although in recent years, cold weather continues even after its celebration.

Celebration of Lohri, MakarSankranti, Bihu, Pongal&Uttarayan

Lohri is celebrated the night before MakarSankranti, mainly by Sikhs and Hindus of North India. It is dedicated to the Sun God and involves lighting bonfires in the evening. People gather around, throwing peanuts, popcorn, and local sweets into the fire while singing and dancing.

MakarSankranti is celebrated across India under different names—Lohri in Punjab, Bhogi in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, and Bihu in Assam.

Bihu is a 5,000-year-old Assamese festival with three major celebrations. On MakarSankranti, BhogaliBihu is observed with grand feasts centeredaround freshly harvested rice. In April, RongaliBihu features vibrant community dance performances, and after Deepawali, KongaliBihu marks the end of food supplies, signifying scarcity. These celebrations, while joyous, impact normal work routines for an extended period.

Regardless of regional variations, MakarSankranti signifies the beginning of a new agricultural season. Freshly harvested rice, beaten rice, sesame sweets, jaggery, sweet potatoes, radishes, and curd are consumed after a ritual bath, followed by wearing new clothes. The festival meal typically features a delicious variation of khichdi.

Pongal is celebrated with immense joy and gratitude in Tamil Nadu. It is a sacred harvest festival honouring the Sun God. The first day, known as Bhogi, involves burning old and unwanted belongings in a bonfire to symbolize new beginnings.

Uttarayan is celebrated in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. It signifies the end of winter and the arrival of prosperity. The Sun’s rays are believed to bring warmth and positive energy. Farmers harvest sugarcane, which plays a crucial role in the festivities. Bonfires provide warmth, and colourful kites fill the skies, bringing excitement and joy.

The Charm of Sunlight

Sunlight is cherished by all living beings. The absence of the Sun, especially on misty and foggy days, creates a longing for its warmth. A mere glimpse of sunlight brings an instant smile and momentary relief.

Advantages of the Sun

Even a slight clearance of fog improves visibility, reduces air pollution, and lifts our spirits in ways that cannot be measured. On chilly days, when bone-chilling winds tear through the air, even an hour or two of sunlight offers much-needed solace.

Global Warming and Cooling

Over the past decade, global warming has become a serious concern, with Earth's temperature rising by 1 to 1.6 degrees annually. The consequences are evident—mosquito and insect infestations, accelerated glacial melting, river course alterations, changing crop patterns, and the breaking of icebergs.

Amidst this warming, occasional instances of global cooling have been observed, sometimes accompanied by unexpected rainfall. Though baffling, cooling phases are generally short-lived. However, scientific research consistently points to an overall trend of warming rather than cooling. A more detailed and systematic analysis of global cooling is needed—it may or may not turn into a fascinating research field, but a beginning must be made.

During winter, the Sun’s disappearance can be gradual or abrupt. Woolens, aired and sun-dried in the morning, are quickly gathered as the cold sets in. As darkness descends, another winter day ends, leaving us uncertain about the next day’s weather. Yet, we must remain prepared.

This analysis highlights the significance of worshipping nature and preserving biodiversity for the survival of humankind. The traditions may differ across regions, but the essence remains the same—respect and gratitude for nature’s life-giving force.